Vishu’s Golden Glow: Malayali new year steeped in time-honoured practices

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The vibrant and joyous festival of Vishu, heralding the arrival of spring and the commencement of a new year in the Malayalam calendar, is being celebrated with great enthusiasm by Malayalees worldwide on April 14, 2024.

As the sun rises at 06:18 AM and sets at 06:31 PM, marking the auspicious occasion, devotees eagerly anticipate the Sankranti Moment at 09:06 PM. Vishu is a time for new beginnings, symbolising hope, prosperity, and renewal in life’s journey.

The day commences with the sacred ritual of sighting Vishu Kani, an arrangement comprising murti of Bhagwan Krishna, Kanikonna Poovu (Golden Shower flowers), monetary offerings, fruits, and vegetables. Believers hold the belief that witnessing these auspicious symbols at the onset of the year will usher in good fortune and blessings.

Vishu is observed with fervour and devotion, with devotees engaging in religious activities such as reciting the Ramayana, seeking blessings at temples, and offering prayers for a prosperous year ahead. Traditional feasts, known as Sadya, are prepared with sumptuous delicacies, and the atmosphere is filled with the joyous sounds of firecrackers.

While Vishu is celebrated as Mesha Sankranti in accordance with the Indian Solar Calendar, it is commemorated under various names across the nation, including Puthandu in Tamil Nadu, Vaisakhi in Punjab, Pohela Boishakh in West Bengal, Bihu in Assam, and Pana Sankranti in Orissa.

As Malayalees and people of diverse cultures come together to revel in the spirit of Vishu, they extend heartfelt wishes for prosperity, happiness, and love to grace the lives of all. May this Vishu bring abundant blessings and joy to all who celebrate.

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